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Compromised Hearts
In this dazzling novel from New York Times bestselling author Hannah Howell, a beauty without means and a man without scruples strike a scandalous bargain that takes them into the heart of desire. . .
No gentleman would guarantee a lady's safety in exchange for her virtue. But that is precisely why Cloud Ryder would never call himself a gentleman. He wants Emily Brockinger the moment he sets eyes on her, and volunteers to guide her and her ward through lawless Colorado territory--if she'll share his bed. Yet to his surprise, the delicate Boston blueblood has a grit and fire that thrill him as no woman ever has. . .
Emily has no choice but to accept Cloud's terms, and no way to control her body's response to the virile, part-Cherokee drifter. The trail is strewn with obstacles, and the dangers only increase once they reach their destination. All his life, Cloud has shunned commitment, but now the only way to keep Emily safe is to open his heart--to the one woman with the passion and power to break it. . .
"The superbly talented Howell never disappoints." -- Romantic Times
"The laughter mingles with the tears in any story from the talented pen of Hannah Howell. If you haven't read her before, start now!" -- Affair de Coeur
No gentleman would guarantee a lady's safety in exchange for her virtue. But that is precisely why Cloud Ryder would never call himself a gentleman. He wants Emily Brockinger the moment he sets eyes on her, and volunteers to guide her and her ward through lawless Colorado territory--if she'll share his bed. Yet to his surprise, the delicate Boston blueblood has a grit and fire that thrill him as no woman ever has. . .
Emily has no choice but to accept Cloud's terms, and no way to control her body's response to the virile, part-Cherokee drifter. The trail is strewn with obstacles, and the dangers only increase once they reach their destination. All his life, Cloud has shunned commitment, but now the only way to keep Emily safe is to open his heart--to the one woman with the passion and power to break it. . .
"The superbly talented Howell never disappoints." -- Romantic Times
"The laughter mingles with the tears in any story from the talented pen of Hannah Howell. If you haven't read her before, start now!" -- Affair de Coeur
443 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 1989
83 people are currently reading
564 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Howell
115 books2,644 followersHannah Dustin Howell is a best-selling American author of over 40 historical romance novels. Many of her novels are set in medieval Scotland. She also writes under the names Sarah Dustin, Sandra Dustin, and Anna Jennet (see below).
She has also used the following pseudonyms:
Anna Jennet, Sarah Dustin and Sandra Dustin
She has also used the following pseudonyms:
Anna Jennet, Sarah Dustin and Sandra Dustin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
August 17, 2022
I picked this book up from the shelves in my library. I don't know why this one grabbed my attention when there were a ton of other romance novels. I had read Hannah Howell before (a girl-disguised-as-a-boy western romance) and really enjoyed it, so I had been down to read her again for some time.
Emily Brockindger is going west to live with her brother when the group she is with is attacked by Native Americans. She and the other survivor, a three-year-old boy, are found by Cloud Ryder, a 1/4 Native American scout. (Cloud isn't connected to his heritage at all, and the Native Americans were one of the enemies in this story.) Cloud is super attracted to her, so he proposes that he sleep with Emily if he is to be their guide. She reluctantly agrees, even though she is like why do I enjoy his touches so much/why am I such a wanton (the prim-but-passionate heroine).
I felt like this book was about 100 pages too long. I wanted it to end when Cloud interrupted her marriage to Chilton and married her instead. That could have been the climax, and I would have been fine with it. Instead, Chilton, Dorothy, and another OW who Cloud threw over all wanted revenge, and it felt a little silly after a while (felt like drama just added in to make the book longer).
I liked the twist where Emily had twins, though I suspected that since Cloud thought she was overly large.
Emily Brockindger is going west to live with her brother when the group she is with is attacked by Native Americans. She and the other survivor, a three-year-old boy, are found by Cloud Ryder, a 1/4 Native American scout. (Cloud isn't connected to his heritage at all, and the Native Americans were one of the enemies in this story.) Cloud is super attracted to her, so he proposes that he sleep with Emily if he is to be their guide. She reluctantly agrees, even though she is like why do I enjoy his touches so much/why am I such a wanton (the prim-but-passionate heroine).
I felt like this book was about 100 pages too long. I wanted it to end when Cloud interrupted her marriage to Chilton and married her instead. That could have been the climax, and I would have been fine with it. Instead, Chilton, Dorothy, and another OW who Cloud threw over all wanted revenge, and it felt a little silly after a while (felt like drama just added in to make the book longer).
I liked the twist where Emily had twins, though I suspected that since Cloud thought she was overly large.
October 9, 2014
Si superas ese estrepitoso comienzo, el libro no es malo.
Obviamente tienes que ser fuerte e ignorar que el protagonista se comportó como un estúpido bastardo al pedirle que se acostara con él todo el camino a cambio de su seguridad. Y que ella tuviera que aceptar porque era una tremenda estupidez conservarse virgen si los indios iban a matarla de todas formas. Y el hecho de que ella aceptara antes de que él pudiera pudiera retirar la oferta y brindarle seguridad de todas formas. =.=
Más allá de eso, la novela me gustó mucho. Emily realmente disfruta estar en los brazos de Cloud, así que no fue un mal trato. Y a Cloud, Emily empieza a gustarle bastante hasta el punto de darle un giro de 360º a su vida.
Era muy gracioso leer a Emily, ver cómo fastidia a Cloud por celos y leer el reguero de amantes que éste ha dejado de camino a su rancho.
Me gusta la historia, Cloud y Emily hacen linda pareja. Thornton *creo que se escribe así* tiene solo tres años, pero lo que le ha tocado vivir lo ha cambiado por completo. Pobre niño.
Me gustan los sucesos del final, cuando ya pueden asentarse. Son muy adorables. Lástima que los hermanos de Cloud no tengan historia *que haya visto*. ¡Quiero saber que fue de Giorsal! ¡Con quién se queda! ¿Wolfe? ¿Harper? ¡Let me know!
Obviamente tienes que ser fuerte e ignorar que el protagonista se comportó como un estúpido bastardo al pedirle que se acostara con él todo el camino a cambio de su seguridad. Y que ella tuviera que aceptar porque era una tremenda estupidez conservarse virgen si los indios iban a matarla de todas formas. Y el hecho de que ella aceptara antes de que él pudiera pudiera retirar la oferta y brindarle seguridad de todas formas. =.=
Más allá de eso, la novela me gustó mucho. Emily realmente disfruta estar en los brazos de Cloud, así que no fue un mal trato. Y a Cloud, Emily empieza a gustarle bastante hasta el punto de darle un giro de 360º a su vida.
Era muy gracioso leer a Emily, ver cómo fastidia a Cloud por celos y leer el reguero de amantes que éste ha dejado de camino a su rancho.
Me gusta la historia, Cloud y Emily hacen linda pareja. Thornton *creo que se escribe así* tiene solo tres años, pero lo que le ha tocado vivir lo ha cambiado por completo. Pobre niño.
Me gustan los sucesos del final, cuando ya pueden asentarse. Son muy adorables. Lástima que los hermanos de Cloud no tengan historia *que haya visto*. ¡Quiero saber que fue de Giorsal! ¡Con quién se queda! ¿Wolfe? ¿Harper? ¡Let me know!
April 25, 2011
I've only read a few of Hannah Howell's books and so far they've been pretty good. I really liked this book but I would give it 3 1/2 * if I could.
Cloud (H) is finally heading home to his land, he's thinking that it's time to set down some roots, build a home and be close to his family. On his way he can't believe what he finds, a young woman just strolling through the most dangerous Indian territory with her best Sunday bonnet, parasol and a small child.
Emily (h) and Thorton (little boy) are the only survivors of an Indian attack on their wagon train. With nothing else that she could do, she takes Thorton and starts walking west hoping that help will arrive and she will make it to her brother's house.
When Cloud comes across these two he know he needs to help them, figuring that Thorton must be Emily's child and that she's no maid, she can pay him along the way with her body.
I loved the scenes of them going the way home, camping out in the wilderness and all. The one thing this story lacked for me was any excitment, there really wasn't any. There were some scenes where they are in a shoot out with renegades and Emily is taken hostage but it just kinda fell flat for me. I also could tell that this is part of a series and must be book 2 or so. There is mention towards the end of Clouds sister and another character having the gift of sight and I'm soooo glad that it was at the end and just lightly touched on or else it would have ruined the book for me.
Cloud (H) is finally heading home to his land, he's thinking that it's time to set down some roots, build a home and be close to his family. On his way he can't believe what he finds, a young woman just strolling through the most dangerous Indian territory with her best Sunday bonnet, parasol and a small child.
Emily (h) and Thorton (little boy) are the only survivors of an Indian attack on their wagon train. With nothing else that she could do, she takes Thorton and starts walking west hoping that help will arrive and she will make it to her brother's house.
When Cloud comes across these two he know he needs to help them, figuring that Thorton must be Emily's child and that she's no maid, she can pay him along the way with her body.
I loved the scenes of them going the way home, camping out in the wilderness and all. The one thing this story lacked for me was any excitment, there really wasn't any. There were some scenes where they are in a shoot out with renegades and Emily is taken hostage but it just kinda fell flat for me. I also could tell that this is part of a series and must be book 2 or so. There is mention towards the end of Clouds sister and another character having the gift of sight and I'm soooo glad that it was at the end and just lightly touched on or else it would have ruined the book for me.
July 25, 2015
2 1/2 stars. I'm not quite sure I liked this book or not. I selected it for its publication date, needing to complete a reading challenge. And I love really good bodice rippers. I thought I had a winner.
The story revolves around former soldier and scout Cloud Ryder, whose cheese-tastic name and reputation with the ladies added humorous elements to the story. I'm not quite sure the author intended this, but perhaps. Cloud rescues proper Boston crème Emily, who has set out west to find her brother Harper in order to escape the poor lifestyle she'd been forced into while living with her sister in the city.
Cloud and Emily strike a sex bargain - get me to San Luis, and I'll sleep with you on the way there. They fall into an easy routine - interspersed with kidnappings, renegades, Indians, drunken fights, drunken sex, jealous ex-girlfriends at every one-hitch post, spineless brothers, greedy moneylenders, quirky Scottish midwives, twin babies. Sounds like good times. Unfortunately, I was not really thrilled with the writing style of the author, and so, even with so many plot devices thrown in there, I really couldn't care less. Cliché piled upon cliché until I was ready for the book to end, 75 pages before it actually did.
The story revolves around former soldier and scout Cloud Ryder, whose cheese-tastic name and reputation with the ladies added humorous elements to the story. I'm not quite sure the author intended this, but perhaps. Cloud rescues proper Boston crème Emily, who has set out west to find her brother Harper in order to escape the poor lifestyle she'd been forced into while living with her sister in the city.
Cloud and Emily strike a sex bargain - get me to San Luis, and I'll sleep with you on the way there. They fall into an easy routine - interspersed with kidnappings, renegades, Indians, drunken fights, drunken sex, jealous ex-girlfriends at every one-hitch post, spineless brothers, greedy moneylenders, quirky Scottish midwives, twin babies. Sounds like good times. Unfortunately, I was not really thrilled with the writing style of the author, and so, even with so many plot devices thrown in there, I really couldn't care less. Cliché piled upon cliché until I was ready for the book to end, 75 pages before it actually did.
October 26, 2024
3 - 3.5 stars, I’ve read several of HH’s books and most don’t rise above 3 stars for me. However, I enjoyed this book for what it was and went thru it quickly, which is a good sign, but also because it’s such an easy quick read. Her writing kind of reminds me a little of Connie Mason, but without that little extra umph or spice a good CM book can have that pushes some of her books to a 4 for me. I liked most of the characters. The H/h, a little stero-typical, had some chemistry and a few good secondary characters such as the Scottish lass Giorsal added spice to the dialogue. That said there were also a couple of things I found odd such as a 3 year old who speaks and behaves more like a 6 year old. Again, fiction and an easy read so you have to just go with it. Mostly standard stuff here with a little action thrown in, a villainous plot, and some humorous moments as well. I might read it again and I can recommend it for a simple, lust in the dust, quick read.
March 25, 2019
Offensive and disgusting. Not well written.
December 6, 2010
Compromised Hearts by Hannah Howell
Torrid western adventure
Emily Brockinger, a fine Boston lady, gets marooned in the Colorado prairie after her caravan traveling from Boston to the San Luis Valley is attacked. Only surviving a toddler and herself. Braving out Emily continues the life-threatening journey with the child on her back. She encounters Cloud Ryder, who is returning from a war to settle on his land also located on the San Luis Valley.
A handsome wanderer with a rogue’s reputation, shun for his immoral behavior and Cherokee’s heritage, Cloud is impressed by Emily’s beauty, fortitude and determination. He desires her at first glance. Cloud proposes safeguarding Emily to their destination if she gives herself to him. Outraged at first, Emily accepts the proposal out of desperation.
Cloud has little trust in women, specially after his first love married the man chosen by her family breaking his heart. He starts using women in the same way they use him. Most of the women he meets are of dubious reputation as himself. Never encountering someone like Emily, he is amazed by her innocence and passion. Often feeling guilty for seducing her and ruining her virtue, but unable to stop their passionate encounters.
Emily discovers her own sensual nature between Cloud’s arms, and struggles with moral beliefs. Along the way, they encounter Cloud’s friends and some of his former lovers. The more time Emily spends with Cloud and for the information she gathers from those who they run across, hints that Cloud tricked her into his bedroll. That he never would have left Emily and the kid behind. Cloud is some kind of hero according to what she learns. She gets furious, but instead of facing him and demanding the deal off, she continues to sleep with him, because by then, she’s addicted to his lovemaking.
After dangerous incidents they reach their destination, and the insurmountable problems really start. Emily’s brother, Harper, persuaded by his greedy wife, arranges a marriage of convenience for Emily to an amoral banker. Intrigues threaten and separate Emily and Cloud, thus, the story takes a stimulating turn. And the romance spring up, Cloud’s feelings for Emily mature beyond the irresistible desires she inspires him.
Hannah Howell has a talent to convey characters’ deepest emotions and during the narrative, it’s a pleasure to see how they both change and what kind of life awaits them. The author did an excellent job with Cloud’s characterization, creating him pleasantly mischievous without making him unlikable. I love the ending, it’s not only a happy ending, it gave me the feeling this couple is made for one another. They don’t confess their mutual love for each other until the last part of the book. When they finally said, “I love you.” It’s a memorable scene, the hardest for Cloud, who needs to go through almost losing Emily a few times, before acknowledging his love for her.
The characters are brilliantly developed, even Cloud former lovers have some uniqueness. All secondary characters are noteworthy, specially the Ryder family clan and Giorsal, Emily’s friend. It’s a book to remember, both the plot and its unforgettable cast. Seeing Cloud going from cynical womanizer to devoted husband, who faints after Emily gives birth to twins, is a great reading experience. I recommend this book to anyone who loves romance and adventure.
Torrid western adventure
Emily Brockinger, a fine Boston lady, gets marooned in the Colorado prairie after her caravan traveling from Boston to the San Luis Valley is attacked. Only surviving a toddler and herself. Braving out Emily continues the life-threatening journey with the child on her back. She encounters Cloud Ryder, who is returning from a war to settle on his land also located on the San Luis Valley.
A handsome wanderer with a rogue’s reputation, shun for his immoral behavior and Cherokee’s heritage, Cloud is impressed by Emily’s beauty, fortitude and determination. He desires her at first glance. Cloud proposes safeguarding Emily to their destination if she gives herself to him. Outraged at first, Emily accepts the proposal out of desperation.
Cloud has little trust in women, specially after his first love married the man chosen by her family breaking his heart. He starts using women in the same way they use him. Most of the women he meets are of dubious reputation as himself. Never encountering someone like Emily, he is amazed by her innocence and passion. Often feeling guilty for seducing her and ruining her virtue, but unable to stop their passionate encounters.
Emily discovers her own sensual nature between Cloud’s arms, and struggles with moral beliefs. Along the way, they encounter Cloud’s friends and some of his former lovers. The more time Emily spends with Cloud and for the information she gathers from those who they run across, hints that Cloud tricked her into his bedroll. That he never would have left Emily and the kid behind. Cloud is some kind of hero according to what she learns. She gets furious, but instead of facing him and demanding the deal off, she continues to sleep with him, because by then, she’s addicted to his lovemaking.
After dangerous incidents they reach their destination, and the insurmountable problems really start. Emily’s brother, Harper, persuaded by his greedy wife, arranges a marriage of convenience for Emily to an amoral banker. Intrigues threaten and separate Emily and Cloud, thus, the story takes a stimulating turn. And the romance spring up, Cloud’s feelings for Emily mature beyond the irresistible desires she inspires him.
Hannah Howell has a talent to convey characters’ deepest emotions and during the narrative, it’s a pleasure to see how they both change and what kind of life awaits them. The author did an excellent job with Cloud’s characterization, creating him pleasantly mischievous without making him unlikable. I love the ending, it’s not only a happy ending, it gave me the feeling this couple is made for one another. They don’t confess their mutual love for each other until the last part of the book. When they finally said, “I love you.” It’s a memorable scene, the hardest for Cloud, who needs to go through almost losing Emily a few times, before acknowledging his love for her.
The characters are brilliantly developed, even Cloud former lovers have some uniqueness. All secondary characters are noteworthy, specially the Ryder family clan and Giorsal, Emily’s friend. It’s a book to remember, both the plot and its unforgettable cast. Seeing Cloud going from cynical womanizer to devoted husband, who faints after Emily gives birth to twins, is a great reading experience. I recommend this book to anyone who loves romance and adventure.
January 24, 2016
Compromised Hearts by Hannah Howell is a reissue, originally published in 1989. It is an excellent Western Historical Romance. Filled with romance, adventure and some wonderful characters you’ll enjoy as well as some that you’ll hope will get what’s coming to them.
Cloud and Emily have great chemistry together and it’s a joy to follow them on their journey through the Wild West and into the San Luis Valley. Along the way you’ll find danger, steamy nights and plenty of Cloud’s former lovers scattered about. The writing style and characters are very endearing, particularly Emily. She is no simpering, spoiled lady but one filled with grit and determination. She handles every situation thrown at her in ways that will have you cheering her on.
Cloud’s character is also very well done. He is a complete rake and shows no qualms about it, but you can’t help but like him. He is blunt, but can also be very charming. He handles the situations with his former lovers well and in a way that helps to spare Emily’s feelings. The secondary characters are an excellent addition to the story. Thornton and James are great as are Giorsal and Cloud’s family.
Compromised Hearts is first and foremost a romance and the love story between Cloud and Emily is wonderful one. It is passionate and charming. There are funny moments as well as tender and heartfelt ones. You’ll enjoy reading as they take the plunge towards love. If you’re a fan of Romances set in the Wild West then be sure to read Compromised Hearts.
Cloud and Emily have great chemistry together and it’s a joy to follow them on their journey through the Wild West and into the San Luis Valley. Along the way you’ll find danger, steamy nights and plenty of Cloud’s former lovers scattered about. The writing style and characters are very endearing, particularly Emily. She is no simpering, spoiled lady but one filled with grit and determination. She handles every situation thrown at her in ways that will have you cheering her on.
Cloud’s character is also very well done. He is a complete rake and shows no qualms about it, but you can’t help but like him. He is blunt, but can also be very charming. He handles the situations with his former lovers well and in a way that helps to spare Emily’s feelings. The secondary characters are an excellent addition to the story. Thornton and James are great as are Giorsal and Cloud’s family.
Compromised Hearts is first and foremost a romance and the love story between Cloud and Emily is wonderful one. It is passionate and charming. There are funny moments as well as tender and heartfelt ones. You’ll enjoy reading as they take the plunge towards love. If you’re a fan of Romances set in the Wild West then be sure to read Compromised Hearts.
October 24, 2011
Unfinished, this book is dismal and I wonder at the amount of stars it's received and the relatively high rating.
Two dimensional characters, hardly any development, the love story centres around badly written sex scenes and badly written prose.
I can comfortably say that this novel wasn't worth checking out from the library.
Two dimensional characters, hardly any development, the love story centres around badly written sex scenes and badly written prose.
I can comfortably say that this novel wasn't worth checking out from the library.
September 21, 2012
Don't let the updated cover fool you. It's a standard, old fashioned bodice ripper. It's entertaining and if you like bodice rippers you'll enjoy this. It's complete with damsels being rescued, vengefull ex mistesses and scorned suiters. I read the ebook version and it's badly edited. Lots of typos so I would recommend getting the print version.
March 11, 2025
I love the blurb of the story, FMC trading favours with MMC by offering her body in exhange for his protection and her safety, especially with a child involved. Seeing the year this book has been written in and also, the familiarity I have with Hannah Howell’s other books, I should have know there will be scenes of MMC’s legions of women fighting to get his attention while FMC stands there watching. Howell’s boks are fast becoming quite a cookie cutter at this point. What annoys me is when one of the women rushes to hug him and gives him a lusty kiss and he does nothing to stop her. Probably so to make the FMC jealous. Ughhh! I’m all about brooding and aloof heroes, but when their assholery is so blatant, that’s where I draw the line for them. It’s already bad enough that the book starts with him trying to shrug off a woman he has slept with and used for a week at a camp, ignoring her pleas and cries. What an asshole! At least FMC is someone with a strong spine. I actually laugh out loud when one of his women slaps her for being so scathing with her remarks so FMC doubles up her fist and punches her in the jaw hahahaha! Serves that bish right! She was more than a little tired of facing Cloud's seemingly endless collection of discarded lovers. And so did I!! I don’t need them being shoved right up in my face and get reminded of his legendary prowess with women!! And he wasn’t even being apologetic about the situation at all, ughh!
August 16, 2017
I think 2.5 stars would be a more appropriate rating. I finished the book and I liked some parts, but, the whole, it was kind of annoyed read. I really wanted a mindless book and this was it. Obnoxious male protagonist (Beast) and clueless, but faithful female protagonist (Beauty) in the American West. The child at the beginning of the book became a total plot moppet toward the end. He almost disappeared when the other children came into the picture. Not to mention... Thornton and Thor? Seriously? It was like the author forgot her character list. It was a perfect camping book: easy to read, easy to pick up and put down, not moving enough for great hate or great love, and utterly forgettable.
March 19, 2022
I don't mind books where the H/h get together early in the story, but I felt they hooked up too early in this one. I felt like the H was trying to be like other heroes from other books written during the time this book was published, 1989, but didn't quite measure up. Like a young actor in a movie trying to imitate an older, seasoned actor.
April 30, 2019
Fantastic Story
I have read a lot of historical westerns and really like them but this was a fantastic story. I just hope she gives James, Wolfe , Thunder and Harper their own story.
I have read a lot of historical westerns and really like them but this was a fantastic story. I just hope she gives James, Wolfe , Thunder and Harper their own story.
January 5, 2025
Another story that couldnt care less about development
And just expects you to buy the tell of a woman almost immediately falling in love with a guy who essentially blackmailed her and raped her
And just expects you to buy the tell of a woman almost immediately falling in love with a guy who essentially blackmailed her and raped her
April 3, 2018
Cloud's part Cherokee. Emily is from Boston society. But both fall in x-rated lust-love at first sight and the West is yet wild.
May 25, 2018
interesting read, reprint, orig was 1989
July 10, 2018
the man was a stupid bastard and the woman was sooo "understanding" of his bastardly ways that I wanted to punch both of them
July 25, 2019
One of the best books I’ve read this year.
December 27, 2019
From all of Hannah Howell books, this one is my favourite.
December 17, 2020
4.5 stars
January 7, 2021
I liked this book I thought it a quick read and I like reading Hannah Howell books.
June 14, 2016
Can also be read on my blog.
Title : Compromised Hearts
Author : Hannah Howell
Demographic : Adult
Genre : Romance, Historical, Western
Hannah Howell heats things up with this historical romance in the Wild West.
From Goodreads :
Emily Cordelia of Boston was scarcely suited for the dangerous journey to her brother's ranch in San Luis Valley. When Indians attacked, she and a young boy were left at the mercy of a half-breed who offered to guide them to safety. His only request was that Emily share his bedroll.
The story follows Emily Cordelia heading to Colorado to find her brother, since she recently left her sister's family home and husband. The novel starts off right after Emily and her entourage were attacked by 'Injuns,' and was safely hidden unaware. She and a three-year old boy named Thornton were the only ones to have survived. With bare knowledge of their survival, she still starts off to to San Luis with what little they had. Then comes in Cloud Ryder, a quarter Cherokee drifter, who is also conveniently heading in the same direction. He makes a deal to guide and protect them in exchange for her body. She complies reluctantly, but thats where their adventure begins.
Emily's brother, Harper is there to welcome them but his wife is non to pleased and has a plan for her. She was to be married to Chilton, a bargainer to help pay off the family's debt. Cloud stops their plan and whole lot of drama continues from there. With the help of Cloud's brother, Wolfe and their friend, James they help Cloud build a new life with Emily and the boy, Thornton.
I have to first say that this was a re-issue of the novel, first published in 1989. I don't think Howell changed much in this edition but I can see the blatant difference between her writing in this novel and in her Highlanders one. It's not as descriptive and the plot was average, with too much characters popping in and out, without real purpose. Not to say it wasn't an entertaining read but I was just expecting a bit more since I never read any of her Western novels before. I think it'll be a hit and go for anyone who reads it.
Told in third person perspective of Emily, Cloud, and other side characters, we see Emily is not a meek character. She wants to survive with Thorton and happens to fall in love with Cloud while doing so. She is pretty tough with her parasol, and she knows being with Cloud would lead to a broken heart, yet she still continues on. She is from Boston, so to Cloud and his friends/family, she is a born and bred lady that differs to the saloon type girls that usual occupy their time. I liked her and there were some comedic parts I enjoyed with her being a proper lady. There was nothing I really disliked about her, but I wasn't really absorbed into her like other heroines.
Cloud . . Cloud is a womanizer and not a family man in the beginning. He was heading to San Luis Valley to finally settle down after been through some wars, but didn't expect the petite Emily to entice him. I actually had to get use to Cloud, as I usually like my heros from the get go. It seemed every city Cloud visits, he has a woman to warm his bed. It was funny to see Emily get jealous from them, but overall, it mostly annoyed me until he became the family man Emily needed. He's a total Alpha and I liked that about him, just rather he wasn't such a womanizer. Cloud didn't stray from Emily, so I hope readers don't get that impression, but I just wished Howell didn't need to extend how such a philanderer he was.
My Rating : 4 Stars
I went down a star from my usual, it just didn't appeal to me as much as I wanted, sadly. It's still a good book but I kinda wanted more involvement with Thornton, since I fell for that sweet kid from page two. The writing was good, not confusing and mostly on point, but I expected alot more since I read Howell's other book, so that's mostly why I rated down.
Romance : 4
People would think since this is a Historical Romance I would rate it 5, but I didn't. It came back to Cloud mostly, I liked him as a character but it took awhile. The sex was more fluffy than steamy, which isn't bad, but I didn't dive right into it than I usual do.
Recommended : Yes.
There was nothing wrong with this book that I passionately disliked and I still think it's worth the read. If readers out there like Historical Romance and something light to read, go for it. It's still enjoyable and I don't regret reading it.
August 28, 2011
Emily Brockinger has seen first hand the horrors of the west. Almost every member of her party has been killed by Indians, and now she is left to wander further with the only other survivor, a three year old boy named Thorton. Along the way she meets Cloud Ryder, a half-Indian cowboy who wouldn’t dare pass up the opportunity to get to know Emily better. He agrees to escort her and Thorton to her brother’s home if Emily agrees to share his bed during their journey
Ryder has a reputation for being a love ‘em and leave ‘em kind of guy. He intends to make Emily another conquest in his long list of lovers. Of course, along the way he discovers Emily is not the weak northern lady he thought she was. In fact, Emily is unlike any of the other women he has known...one he can’t stop thinking about and isn’t sure he wants to live without. Emily knows enjoying her time with Ryder is wrong, considering the way he conned her into their bargain, but she cannot help herself. With each passing day, her feelings for Cloud grow stronger despite the heartbreak she is certain will follow. Faced with a few trials, Emily and Cloud must discover whether or not their relationship is worth the risk.
Compromised Hearts started out slow and unimpressive. The hero was immediately unlikeable. He came off as somewhat of a creep who sought only to use Emily for his pleasure and had no qualms about it. This could have been a minor problem, but the heroine was such a pure and likable character that you truly felt sorry that she is in this situation with Cloud. Her plight is not an easy one and then Cloud seeks to take advantage of her so it seems somewhat unfair and unrealistic.
As far as this romance novel goes, it’s not really that romantic. Emily is not concerned at all about selling her body, Cloud has no sense of romance whatsoever, and both characters have next to nothing in common. Perhaps what is most disturbing is how Thorton’s character is completely neglected. The young child saw his parents murdered days earlier and along this journey is forced to spend the nights with strangers or brothel owners in order for Emily and Cloud to sleep together per their agreement. Cloud also has a list of conquest that would span the length of a football field....and then some.
Despite the problems with the novel, as the story went on, it did improve. The characters became more likable and the story more entertaining. Compromised Hearts took on a tenderness that was very satisfying. The story’s villains are introduced in the second half which adds a good dose of intrigue and drama to this couple’s journey. The secondary cast of characters is greatly expanded as well in this portion of the book and includes some wonderful additions.
The book was not a total disappointment, but there were some problems that became hard to overlook. It was mainly the attachment to the lead heroine that compels you to read the book the conclusion. Also the improvement of the second half of the novel makes it a worthwhile read. The dilemma these characters face is fascinating and you will want to see it through to its conclusion The story itself is entertaining and interesting, but it is the characters that truly ensure this novel falls short of perfection. If the first half of the novel would have had the same quality as the second half, the novel would have been near perfect, or at least fully enjoyable. Compromised Hearts had some major character flaws, but a promising story line, which made it an average read.
Overall Rating: 3/5
Heat Level: 4/5
Lisa @ Once Upon A Chapter
Ryder has a reputation for being a love ‘em and leave ‘em kind of guy. He intends to make Emily another conquest in his long list of lovers. Of course, along the way he discovers Emily is not the weak northern lady he thought she was. In fact, Emily is unlike any of the other women he has known...one he can’t stop thinking about and isn’t sure he wants to live without. Emily knows enjoying her time with Ryder is wrong, considering the way he conned her into their bargain, but she cannot help herself. With each passing day, her feelings for Cloud grow stronger despite the heartbreak she is certain will follow. Faced with a few trials, Emily and Cloud must discover whether or not their relationship is worth the risk.
Compromised Hearts started out slow and unimpressive. The hero was immediately unlikeable. He came off as somewhat of a creep who sought only to use Emily for his pleasure and had no qualms about it. This could have been a minor problem, but the heroine was such a pure and likable character that you truly felt sorry that she is in this situation with Cloud. Her plight is not an easy one and then Cloud seeks to take advantage of her so it seems somewhat unfair and unrealistic.
As far as this romance novel goes, it’s not really that romantic. Emily is not concerned at all about selling her body, Cloud has no sense of romance whatsoever, and both characters have next to nothing in common. Perhaps what is most disturbing is how Thorton’s character is completely neglected. The young child saw his parents murdered days earlier and along this journey is forced to spend the nights with strangers or brothel owners in order for Emily and Cloud to sleep together per their agreement. Cloud also has a list of conquest that would span the length of a football field....and then some.
Despite the problems with the novel, as the story went on, it did improve. The characters became more likable and the story more entertaining. Compromised Hearts took on a tenderness that was very satisfying. The story’s villains are introduced in the second half which adds a good dose of intrigue and drama to this couple’s journey. The secondary cast of characters is greatly expanded as well in this portion of the book and includes some wonderful additions.
The book was not a total disappointment, but there were some problems that became hard to overlook. It was mainly the attachment to the lead heroine that compels you to read the book the conclusion. Also the improvement of the second half of the novel makes it a worthwhile read. The dilemma these characters face is fascinating and you will want to see it through to its conclusion The story itself is entertaining and interesting, but it is the characters that truly ensure this novel falls short of perfection. If the first half of the novel would have had the same quality as the second half, the novel would have been near perfect, or at least fully enjoyable. Compromised Hearts had some major character flaws, but a promising story line, which made it an average read.
Overall Rating: 3/5
Heat Level: 4/5
Lisa @ Once Upon A Chapter
February 6, 2021
😍😍
Foi maravilhoso... 🤩🤩
Cloud Ryder e Emily Brockinger
Quando iniciei a leitura, não pensei que seria uma história de destruir coração.. Emily não teve nenhum dia tranquilo desde que saiu de Boston para viajar para o Vale.. Porém Ryder concorda em levar ela em segurança, mas quer algo em troca, e aceitando o que ele deseja, percebe que está se apaixonando por ele... Durante a viagem Ryder percebe que não quer se afastar dela, e está decidido ter ela ao seu lado.. E tudo é rodeado por confusão, aventura e amor... Cada página foi muito bem escrita... 🥰🥰
Boa Leitura!! Good Reading...
🎀
Foi maravilhoso... 🤩🤩
Cloud Ryder e Emily Brockinger
Quando iniciei a leitura, não pensei que seria uma história de destruir coração.. Emily não teve nenhum dia tranquilo desde que saiu de Boston para viajar para o Vale.. Porém Ryder concorda em levar ela em segurança, mas quer algo em troca, e aceitando o que ele deseja, percebe que está se apaixonando por ele... Durante a viagem Ryder percebe que não quer se afastar dela, e está decidido ter ela ao seu lado.. E tudo é rodeado por confusão, aventura e amor... Cada página foi muito bem escrita... 🥰🥰
Boa Leitura!! Good Reading...
🎀
December 14, 2010
Hannah Howell is my favorite historical romance authors. I love her Scottish Highland books. This is the first book that I've read of Ms. Howell's set in the American West. And those are one of my favorite types of historical romances to read.
It was kind of nice to take a break in reading the other historical romances that she writes. As much as I love the Scottish Highland novels, they have become a bit the same. The heroines has the same physical descriptions, some of the plots are similar, etc. I'll still read them though because I love them. lol It's just nice to change.
I usually don't like reading romances where the heroine is an upright blue-blood but Emily surprised me. She wasn't your typical little rich girl. She's strong, direct, and determined.
Ok, it did bother me that part of the plot was that if she sleeps with Cloud, he'll help her and the little boy, Thornton out. I quickly got over that. ha
This one is actually a reissue from 1989 which I didn't mind. I've never read it.
I did enjoy it.
It was kind of nice to take a break in reading the other historical romances that she writes. As much as I love the Scottish Highland novels, they have become a bit the same. The heroines has the same physical descriptions, some of the plots are similar, etc. I'll still read them though because I love them. lol It's just nice to change.
I usually don't like reading romances where the heroine is an upright blue-blood but Emily surprised me. She wasn't your typical little rich girl. She's strong, direct, and determined.
Ok, it did bother me that part of the plot was that if she sleeps with Cloud, he'll help her and the little boy, Thornton out. I quickly got over that. ha
This one is actually a reissue from 1989 which I didn't mind. I've never read it.
I did enjoy it.
February 24, 2016
Emily is a proper, well bred Boston girl. She was an oops baby that wasn't wanted by her parents. She is a bit of a Cinderella. She sets out alone to go to her brother out west. The group she was traveling with were attacked by Indians and the only survivors are Emily and a little boy named Thornton. Cloud spies Emily and thinking Thornton is her son, offers his help in reaching the San Luis Valley, but for a fee of Emily burning up the sheets with him. Emily is in an internal war with her puritanical good girl self and her wanton sex, sex, sex self. Cloud is a good man, disguised at a bastard rogue. He has a string of women in every little town on their journey. Emily and Cloud are in love, but Cloud doesn't realize it, and Emily isn't going to admit it. There is a kidnapping, shootings, plots, hatred, family sticking by family, kids, humor and adventure. I actually enjoyed this book much more than I initially gave it credit when I decided to read it. It was the perfect book to get me out of my book rut I have been in.
November 22, 2011
It was always hard to swallow the rake to redeemed husband plot line. This is not my favorite type of story, unless we're talking about Snape in the Harry Potter series ... Back to this Compromised Hearts with Cloud Ryder and his lovely Boston-bred lady Emily. I thought that these people could walk out of my kindle because these were three dimensional characters with complex motivations and desires. How do you trust someone to love you? Marriage was no guarantee then or now, so I relate to the struggle of trusting someone to love you. Sometimes you can't even trust your own family (um, I'm pointing the finger at you Carolynn and Harper!) so how does a young lady find the strength to carry on and believe in a stranger? Well, I guess you have to read the novel to find out.
3 stars
Well written, but someone should have read through the kindle version because there are quite a few typos (nere for here, etc...)
3 stars
Well written, but someone should have read through the kindle version because there are quite a few typos (nere for here, etc...)
December 12, 2014
Just finished reading this for a second time within the last 6 months (another I forgot to review and wanted to refresh my memory). I think this is one of the best western novels I've read in a very long time. DO NOT understand the couple of one star ratings AT ALL!!! The characters had LOTS of depth, they were funny, strong, and in Emily's case, sensitive as well. I enjoyed the entire book, was never bored, and would definitely read it again and recommend it to anyone who likes historical western romance that is very "real" in its story-telling. I got completely lost in the book at times, felt I was there, with the characters, and that doesn't happen very often for me. I don't have a bad word for this book, it's all just positive, a really great read!
August 26, 2014
I think I've stated in another review that I love Hannah Howell, so four stars should be no surprise. It's not 5 because... I don't know why, exactly. I really enjoyed the book, but it wasn't "ahh-maay-zing".
There is an interesting side effect to Howell's bevy of virtuous heroines - I feel like a harlot by comparison. But then, at nearly 36 and with a divorce behind me, I don't think anyone expects me to possess such virtues.
Not that I expect romance novels to have any resemblance to reality. If that were the case (in either direction) they wouldn't sell nearly as well or be so damned enjoyable.
Meh.
There is an interesting side effect to Howell's bevy of virtuous heroines - I feel like a harlot by comparison. But then, at nearly 36 and with a divorce behind me, I don't think anyone expects me to possess such virtues.
Not that I expect romance novels to have any resemblance to reality. If that were the case (in either direction) they wouldn't sell nearly as well or be so damned enjoyable.
Meh.
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